Synonyms

Historical Background

Microtubule-associated protein (MAP)/microtubule affinity-regulating kinase [MARK] was first identified for its role in phosphorylating tau, a MAP implicated in Alzheimer’s disease [AD] (Drewes et al. 1995). Following this discovery, four MARK isoforms were identified in humans and rodents, all of which phosphorylate tau, MAP2, and MAP4 (Drewes et al. 1995; Illenberger et al. 1996; Drewes 2004). Phosphorylation of MAPs causes them to dissociate from microtubules [MTs] leading to MT destabilization (Drewes et al. 1997, 1998). Tau has been the subject of intensive studies because its phosphorylation is elevated in the AD brain. Since MARK phosphorylates tau, it is a candidate of prime interest as a possible therapeutic target in treating AD and other brain disorders (Drewes 2004; Naz et al. 2013). MARK has also been found to be...